Small Craft Advisory
Reviewed • Standard Hydrology Definition • WaterLakeLevel
# Small Craft Advisory
A Small Craft Advisory is an official weather statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when sustained winds or frequent gusts reach hazardous thresholds — typically between 20 and 33 knots (23 to 38 mph), or when steep wave conditions pose significant capsize danger.
While the NWS does not officially define the exact size of a 'small craft', the advisory applies to:
- Kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes.
- Jon boats, skiffs, and open fishing utilities under 20 feet.
- Low-freeboard bass boats and personal watercraft (PWC).
Under our Boating Go / No-Go rule set, any active Small Craft Advisory triggers an automatic safety override to Caution or No-Go.
An official National Weather Service marine alert warning operators of small vessels of hazardous winds and rough chop.
What Is a Small Craft Advisory?
A Small Craft Advisory is an official weather statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) when sustained winds or frequent gusts reach hazardous thresholds — typically between 20 and 33 knots (23 to 38 mph), or when steep wave conditions pose significant capsize danger.
What Craft Are Affected?
While the NWS does not officially define the exact size of a 'small craft', the advisory applies to:
- Kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes.
- Jon boats, skiffs, and open fishing utilities under 20 feet.
- Low-freeboard bass boats and personal watercraft (PWC).
Under our Boating Go / No-Go rule set, any active Small Craft Advisory triggers an automatic safety override to Caution or No-Go.
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